Kantara: Chapter 1 Qualifies for Oscars 2026 — A Historic Moment

Kantara: Chapter 1 Qualifies for Oscars 2026 — A Historic Milestone for Indian Cinema

In a landmark moment for Indian cinema, Kantara: Chapter 1 — the much-acclaimed prequel to the 2022 hit Kantara — has officially qualified for consideration at the 98th Academy Awards (Oscars 2026), making it eligible in the Best Picture race and other major categories.

The recognition places the Kannada-language epic among only 201 feature films worldwide that met the rigorous eligibility requirements to compete at the Oscars next year, alongside a select group of Indian and international titles.

This achievement not only highlights the global reach of Kantara: Chapter 1, it also underscores the growing international acknowledgment of India’s diverse storytelling and cinematic craftsmanship.

 

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What This Oscar Qualification Means

To qualify for Oscars consideration in the Best Picture category, a film must meet several key criteria set by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS), including:

• A theatrical run in the United States in at least one of the required metropolitan markets, including Los Angeles and New York, within the eligibility period.
• A minimum qualifying screening period and compliance with Academy inclusion standards.

Having successfully satisfied these conditions, Kantara: Chapter 1 joins other Indian films — such as Tanvi The Great, Tourist Family, and Mahavatar Narsimha — on the Oscars eligible list.

Note: Inclusion on the eligibility list does not guarantee a nomination — the film must still be shortlisted and voted on by Academy members ahead of the official nominations announcement, expected in late January.

About Kantara: Chapter 1

Produced by Hombale Films and directed by Rishab Shetty, Kantara: Chapter 1 is a cultural and mythological epic rooted in the indigenous beliefs and traditions of the Tulunadu region.

The film acts as an origin story, exploring themes of spirituality, community, and resistance, and builds on the legacy of the original Kantara — itself a major commercial and critical success.

Director and lead actor Rishab Shetty has expressed profound pride and gratitude following the Oscars eligibility announcement, celebrating the film’s reach across global audiences and the recognition of Indian narratives on a world stage.

Impact on Indian Cinema

Kantara: Chapter 1’s Oscar qualification comes at a moment of unprecedented presence for Indian films in the international awards circuit, with multiple Indian titles gaining eligibility across major categories.

Industry observers note that this development:

• Boosts global visibility of regional Indian cinema.
• Reinforces the artistic value of culturally specific stories.
• Encourages filmmakers to pursue international standards and audiences.

Bollywood actor Vivek Oberoi publicly lauded the film’s achievement, calling its presence on the Oscars list a “roar of our ancestors” — a nod to the film’s thematic resonance and cultural depth.

The Strategy Behind Kantara’s Oscar Eligibility

Qualifying for the Best Picture category in 2026 is no longer just about box office numbers; it requires meeting strict Inclusion and Representation Standards. Kantara: Chapter 1 successfully cleared these hurdles by submitting the confidential RAISE (Representation and Inclusion Standards Entry) form and satisfying diversity benchmarks in its narrative and production.

The film’s 2025 release was strategically planned to ensure it hit the necessary US metropolitan areas, including Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago. By doing so, it bypassed the “one country, one entry” rule of the International Feature Film category, allowing it to compete directly with Hollywood blockbusters like Jurassic World: Rebirth and Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning.

The film’s massive commercial success—grossing over ₹850 crore—has provided the financial muscle for a robust “For Your Consideration” campaign. As voting begins on January 12, the Kantara team is focusing on the technical categories, where its stunning cinematography and sound design (depicting the 4th-century Kantara forest) are expected to be strong contenders.

What’s Next for Kantara: Chapter 1 at the Oscars

• The official Oscar nomination list will be announced after voting rounds among Academy members — a crucial next step before potential nominations.
• If nominated, the film could compete in categories such as:
  • Best Picture
  • Best Director
  • Best Cinematography
  • Best Original Screenplay
  • Best Production Design
    — among others, depending on submission strategy and Academy evaluation.

With the global film community watching, Kantara: Chapter 1 is now positioned among the most prestigious cinematic contenders of 2026.

Key Oscar 2026 Dates & Stats

Stats for Kantara: Chapter 1

• Box Office: ₹850+ Crore (Global)

• Director/Lead: Rishab Shetty

• Eligible Category: Best Picture (General Entry)

• Primary Competitors (India): Tanvi The Great, Mahavatar Narsimha, Tourist Family